Our team
At Ōtipua Grove, children are welcomed by a warm team of kaiako and leaders who work together to help every child feel safe, known, and ready to learn. This page introduces the people your family may meet at the centre.
Leadership and centre support
Assistant Regional Manager / Centre Manager
Graduate Diploma of Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood)
Fiona has worked in early childhood education for 17 years, including seven years in centre management. She values trusting, reciprocal relationships with tamariki, parents, whānau, and colleagues.
Assistant Centre Manager / Matai Team Leader
Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood)
Carla has nearly 17 years of experience across preschool and nursery settings. Her practice is guided by nurturing, respectful relationships and the RIE and Pikler approaches.
Kauri / Rimu Team Leader
Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood)
Laura has worked in early childhood education for almost 10 years and is passionate about safe, child-led environments where tamariki can share ideas and lead their learning.
Teaching and support team
Kauri Kaiako
Diploma of Teaching (Early Childhood Education)
Jo is a fully qualified and registered teacher with more than 20 years of early childhood experience. She values safe, secure environments where children can explore, learn, and be themselves.
Kauri Kaiako
Diploma of Teaching (Early Childhood Education)
Greg has taught in early childhood for more than 16 years across Timaru, Christchurch, and North Canterbury, and is passionate about sustainability and outdoor learning.
Rimu Kaiako
Graduate Diploma of Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood)
Ying completed her Graduate Diploma in Teaching in 2022 and enjoys creating child-led spaces where tamariki feel connected, supported, and excited to explore.